Isla de la Luna facts for kids
View of Isla de la Luna from Isla del Sol
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Lake Titicaca |
| Coordinates | 16°02′25″S 69°04′15″W / 16.04028°S 69.07083°W |
| Area | 1.05 km2 (0.41 sq mi) |
| Coastline | 6 km (3.7 mi) |
| Highest elevation | 3,925 m (12,877 ft) |
| Administration | |
Isla de la Luna means "Island of the Moon" in Spanish. It is a small island located in Lake Titicaca, which is a very large lake in Bolivia. This island is found east of another famous island called Isla del Sol ("Island of the Sun").
Isla de la Luna is known for its ancient Inca ruins and its connection to old legends. Many people visit the island to learn about its history and the stories of the Inca people.
Contents
Where is the Island of the Moon?
Isla de la Luna is in the La Paz Department of Bolivia. It sits in the southern part of Lake Titicaca. Lake Titicaca is one of the highest navigable lakes in the world. The island is quite small, covering about 1.05 square kilometers (0.4 square miles). Its highest point is about 3,925 meters (12,877 feet) above sea level.
Inca Legends and Mythology
The Inca people had many important legends about Isla de la Luna. According to their mythology, this island was a very sacred place. They believed it was where the god Viracocha commanded the moon to rise into the sky. Viracocha was a creator god in Inca beliefs. He was thought to have created the sun, moon, stars, and even humans.
The island's name, "Island of the Moon," shows its strong link to these ancient stories. It was seen as a special place connected to the moon and its powers.
The Temple of the Moon: Iñak Uyu
On the eastern side of Isla de la Luna, you can find important archaeological ruins. These ruins are believed to be an ancient Inca nunnery or temple. It is often called Iñak Uyu, which means "House of the Chosen Women."
What was an Acllahuasi?
The building on Isla de la Luna was likely an Acllahuasi. This was a special type of building in the Inca Empire. It was a place where young women, called Acllas (Chosen Women), lived and were trained.
These women were chosen for their beauty or skills. They came from different parts of the Inca Empire. They lived a life dedicated to the Inca gods and the Sapa Inca (the emperor).
Life at Iñak Uyu
Life at Iñak Uyu would have been very structured. The Acllas had several important duties:
- They wove fine textiles for the Inca royalty and for religious ceremonies.
- They prepared special foods and drinks, like chicha (corn beer), for rituals.
- They participated in religious ceremonies and worshipped the sun god Inti and the moon goddess Mama Killa.
- Some Acllas might have become wives of the Sapa Inca or been given as wives to important nobles.
The ruins of Iñak Uyu show how important this site was to the Inca. It highlights their advanced building skills and their deep religious beliefs.
Visiting Isla de la Luna Today
Today, Isla de la Luna is a popular place for tourists. Visitors can take a boat trip from Copacabana or Isla del Sol. They come to explore the ancient ruins and enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Titicaca. The island offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Inca civilization.
See also
In Spanish: Isla de la Luna para niños
